Former Gator Cam Newton named Auburn's starting QB

Sixteen months after he decided to transfer from Florida following his arrest in a case involving a stolen laptop, former Florida quarterback Cam Newton has been named Auburn's starting quarterback heading into the fall.

Newton, a former Atlanta-are high school star, spent two years at Florida. He was Tim Tebow's backup in 2007, then eventually redshirted in 2008.

He was arrested in November 2008 and charged with stealing a laptop from another UF student. According to the University Police Department, Newton stole the laptop worth $1,700 and threw it out his dormitory window when officers arrived to investigate.

Newton said he bought the laptop and didn't know it was stolen. He eventually received probation and community service, then transferred to Blinn College in Texas where he led the Buccaneers to the NJCAA championship last December and was considered the top junior college recruit in the country.

Newton rushed for 2,833 yards and 22 touchdowns and also rushed for 655 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2009.

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Florida Gators fans, welcome to the Gator Report for all your news about Gators football, basketball and all UF sports. It's written by University of Florida beat writer Antonya English and the staff of the Tampa Bay Times. We invite your comments and participation.